Chapter 1190
Aside from household soldiers, Rafael hadn't invested in a Shadow Guard. A few skilled warriors handled official assignments, returning only every two weeks to report. Spies gathered intelligence, but rarely served private purposes.
This lack of a larger force stemmed from several factors. Before his Southern Frontier posting, Rafael had already earned his merits. In the capital leading the Mystic Army, Sigmund strictly forbade him from establishing a large guard, especially a Shadow Guard, deeming it taboo. At the Southern Frontier, there was no time for such considerations. Upon his return, Salvador's suspicions quashed any further thoughts.
It was a calculated decision. His household soldiers and estate guards could handle unexpected situations and ensure a safe retreat. For official missions, the Mystic Army could provide support. However, this secret mission precluded using the Mystic Army; he had to rely on his own people.
"Would you like to come with me?" Carissa asked.
"No need," Rafael replied, smiling and gently ruffling her hair. "It's not dangerous; we're just gathering information, not taking action. If it comes to that, we won't be alone. Besides, with the year-end approaching, the Capital Guard and Garrison Unit will be busy. You're better off here, keeping an eye on things."
Carissa understood the approaching holiday pressures on the Capital Guard and Garrison Unit, and the potential for disruption. Her public duties prevented her from leaving the capital. Still, Rafael going with only a few men worried her.
Kyle, learning of the trip the next day, mentioned Gracewood Women's Academy's impending holiday closure. With only a few days until Rafael's departure, Kyle offered to accompany him, given the academy's minimal needs.
Carissa felt reassured, but the matter required discussion with Catherine and the other teachers. Kyle didn't reveal the trip's true nature, telling them he planned a peaceful New Year's at Meadow Ridge.
The other teachers agreed; Kyle could finish exam papers and explanations before leaving, skipping painting and calligraphy classes until his return. The plans were set; today, the exams commenced.
The exams focused on essays and arithmetic, with painting and calligraphy secondary. Essays allowed significant freedom of expression, encompassing current events, social critiques, personal reflections, and daily life. The goal was to assess writing skills, insight, and knowledge retention.
At the Supreme Court, Matthew led Randall to meet Rafael. Randall, seeing the Supreme Court's main hall for the first time, was struck by its orderliness and imposing atmosphere. The only familiar sight was The Laws of Starhaven, a book Matthew had advised him to study diligently. Randall had immersed himself in its study, viewing each word as a step toward promotion.
He consciously set aside his personal identity, reminding himself of his official post. He glimpsed a future for himself. But Matthew's announcement of Rafael's request shattered this self-constructed world. He was still Yuvan's son, born to a concubine and raised by Avis—an undeniable truth.
Randall bowed respectfully. "Greetings, Your Highness." Since Carissa's scolding, he no longer dared leverage family ties.
Rafael greeted him warmly. "No need for formalities between family. Have a seat."
The lack of pressure eased Randall, though unease remained. He sat, striving for composure. "Yes, Your Highness."
He expected Rafael to chat before addressing the matter. Instead, Rafael immediately asked, "What do you know about the situation in Lunvale?"